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At ALGOS, we specialize in treating a wide range of chronic pain conditions without the need for surgery to help you achieve lasting relief and regain your mobility.
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Trigeminal Neuralgia
What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from the face to the brain. It is characterized by sudden, severe, and sharp facial pain that can be triggered by simple activities such as talking, chewing, or even touching the face. The pain episodes can last from a few seconds to several minutes and can be extremely debilitating.
Causes
The exact cause of trigeminal neuralgia is not always clear, but several factors can contribute to the condition:
Nerve Compression
The most common cause is compression of the trigeminal nerve by a blood vessel, which damages the protective myelin sheath around the nerve.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
In some cases, trigeminal neuralgia can be associated with MS, which also damages the myelin sheath.
Tumors
Rarely, tumors pressing on the trigeminal nerve can cause trigeminal neuralgia.
Injury
Facial or surgical injuries can sometimes lead to trigeminal neuralgia.
Idiopathic
In some cases, no clear cause can be identified.
Symptoms
Intense Facial Pain:Sudden, severe, and sharp pain, often described as electric shocks, stabbing, or burning sensations. Pain typically occurs on one side of the face.
Triggered by Simple Actions:Pain can be triggered by everyday activities such as brushing teeth, eating, drinking, talking, or even light touch.
Recurrent Pain: Pain episodes can come in quick succession or be sporadic, with periods of remission.
Localized Pain: Pain usually affects specific areas of the face, such as the cheek, jaw, teeth, gums, lips, or less commonly, the eye and forehead.
Diagnosis of Trigeminal Neuralgia
Medical History and Symptom Description: Detailed discussion of symptoms, triggers, and pain patterns.
Physical and Neurological Examination: Examining facial sensitivity and function to rule out other conditions.
Imaging Tests:
MRI: To detect potential causes such as blood vessel compression, tumors, or multiple sclerosis.
MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography): To visualize blood vessels and their relationship to the trigeminal nerve.
When to See a Doctor
Consult a doctor if you have:
When your headaches are severe
Symptoms such as confusion, weakness
Feels like a band or vice around the head
If they are disrupting your daily life
Treatment Options
Treatment for trigeminal neuralgia aims to manage pain and improve quality of life. Options include:
Medications:
- Anticonvulsants: Medications such as carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, and gabapentin are commonly used to reduce nerve pain.
- Muscle Relaxants: Medications like baclofen may be prescribed to help control pain.
- Tricyclic Antidepressants: Amitriptyline and nortriptyline can sometimes help manage pain.
Procedural Treatments:
- Nerve Blocks: Injections of local anesthetics or steroids near the trigeminal nerve can provide temporary relief.
- Radiofrequency Ablation: Heat generated by radio waves is used to selectively damage nerve fibres and reduce pain.
- Glycerol Injection: Injection of glycerol near the trigeminal nerve root can help reduce pain.
- Balloon Compression: A balloon is inflated near the trigeminal nerve to compress it and reduce pain signals.
Surgical Treatments:
- Microvascular Decompression (MVD): A surgical procedure to relieve nerve compression by repositioning or removing blood vessels pressing on the trigeminal nerve.
- Gamma Knife Radiosurgery: A non-invasive procedure using focused radiation to damage the trigeminal nerve and reduce pain.
Pain Interventions
Avoiding Triggers: Identifying and avoiding activities or conditions that trigger pain episodes.
Stress Management: Reducing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, and adequate rest.
Regular Follow-ups: Keeping regular appointments with healthcare providers to monitor and adjust treatment as needed.
Conclusion
Trigeminal neuralgia can severely impact daily life, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, many individuals can manage their symptoms effectively. A combination of medications, procedural treatments, and lifestyle adjustments can significantly improve quality of life. If you experience symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia, consult our specialists at ALGOS, for comprehensive care and personalized treatment options.
Located centrally on Cunningham Road in Bengaluru, our clinic is easily accessible from all parts of the city, ensuring high-quality pain management services are available to everyone.
- 7975896550
- info@algospainclinic.com
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